Clinical Evaluation of Proximal Contact Points in Fixed Prostheses

This cross-sectional study clinically assesses the tightness of proximal contact points of fixed dental prosthesis with natural teeth. Sixty nine (69) patients visiting the Department of Prosthodontics, Armed Forces Institute of Dentists (AFID), Rawalpindi, were included. The crowns, as a single unit or terminal abutment of bridge, prepared and fabricated at the same institute were included. A total of 142 Proximal Contact Points (PCPs) were assessed with the dental floss and categorized as acceptable, loose and tight. Among these, 83 (58.4%) were acceptable, 41 (28.8%) loose and 18 (12.6%) were tight. Out of 142 PCPs, 104 (73.2%) were Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM) and 38 (26.7%), all metal. Out of 104 PFM crown/FPD PCPs 59 (56.7%) were acceptable, 32 (30.7%) were loose and 13 (12.5%) tight. Out of 38 all metal crown/FPD PCPs 24 (63%) acceptable, 9 (23%) were loose and 5 (13%) were tight. PCPs must be checked for acceptability before cementation. The PCPs of adjacent natural dentition in same patient may serve as guide for assessment.